Nonprofit To Do List

1.  Make Mission Statement - a carefully crafted definition of an organization's long-term focus and scope: the stated purpose of the nonprofit organization

a.  ex. Teach For America's mission is to enlist, develop, and mobilize as many as possible of our nation's most promising future leaders to grow and strengthen the movement for educational equity and excellence

2.  Make Vision - A one-sentence statement describing the clear and inspirational long-term desired change resulting from an organization or program’s work

a.  ex. Save the Children - Our vision is a world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development and participation.

3. Recruit Founding Board Members –

a. At least 3-5 people committed to see the organization succeed

b. They don’t need to have fancy titles or big pockets

c. They need to be able to hold the Founder/Director accountable to see the organization flourish and launch

d. Should understand that they will be volunteering their time, talent, and treasure.  Would essentially be considered ‘part-time employees’ of the organization.

e. Should committee to role for two (2) years or until the organization is established enough to transition into a more legitimate board (Governing Board)

4. Define the organization’s Purpose Statement –

a. To be used for Bylaws and Government Documents

b. Can be as broad or specific as you want, but should include – The Organization is organized and operated for tax-exempt purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code

5. Make the Articles of incorporation

6. File the Articles with the appropriate state office

7. Make Bylaws

8. Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) once you become incorporated

9. Apply for 501(c)3 status with the IRS

10. Become a full-functioning tax-exempt, nonprofit organization and go make a difference!